OCZ launches XMP memory for laptops

One of the largest, if not the largest problem in the world of gaming notebooks is without any doubt, memory. Regardless of what kind of notebook you buy, there is almost certainly "no way in hell" that BIOS is going to expose memory timings. You can overclock the processor, graphics card, put a faster hard drive [or disable power saving techniques – spin down etc.], but when it comes to memory, nothing helps. Unless you take decide to flash the SPD chip on the memory module and change latencies, increase clock, voltage and so on [did it couple of times, btw].

But this warranty-voiding procedure can cause you a lot of grief if a memory module decides to go poof [yep, that happened too. Guilty as charged]. OCZ introduced, we might be wrong here – world’s first EXtreme Memory Profile [XMP] SO-DIMM modules. These 2GB DDR3-1066 modules come with so far, the lowest latencies for notebooks: CL6, 6-6-16 at 1.6 Volts. Intel’s XMP is actually an interesting take on EPP/SLI-Ready memory, concept originally developed by Corsair and nVidia.

If you put these modules on a Centrino 2 motherboard, the system will automatically boot using these low-latency settings – and that’s about that. Now, it is up to you to decide – do you want to go with CL9, 9-9-20 latency and 1333 MHz, or these new modules? We also wonder how come that DDR3-1333 SO-DIMMs operate at 1.5V, and XMP kits at 1.6… it would be interesting to find out how low latency can a DDR3-1333 module achieve if set at 1.6 Volts.

About the AuthorTheo Valich

Focused on creating synergy between various industries, creating next-gen solutions.Passionate about the new and emerging technologies. Work experience spans from game development and event organizing, editing magazine and on-line publications to aerospace development.Specialties: Team Leadership / Management / Technical Consultant / Funding.Enjoys travelling around the world and meeting new people. :)